Claritin; Lorfast (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strength is 10 mg; liquid and other products may use different strengths.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A once-daily antihistamine commonly used for allergic rhinitis symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and nasal itching. It may also be used to relieve itching and hives.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use after a known serious hypersensitivity reaction to loratadine or an ingredient in the product. Check specific formulation restrictions before use.
Important precautions
Usually less sedating than older antihistamines, but drowsiness can still occur. Seek advice in liver or kidney disease and before combining it with other allergy or cold medicines.
Common side effects
Possible effects include headache, tiredness, dry mouth and occasional drowsiness.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
A severe allergic reaction is rare but needs emergency attention. Seek assessment for persistent or worsening symptoms or an unusual severe reaction.
Important interactions
Other antihistamines and combination cold products may duplicate treatment. Review all medicines with a clinician or pharmacist, particularly if liver function is impaired.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a serious reaction to loratadine or any product ingredient. Confirm the formulation’s excipients if a known allergy exists.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Ask a healthcare professional to review loratadine use during pregnancy, especially for ongoing symptoms or use alongside other medicines.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Get professional advice before regular use while breastfeeding; the infant’s age and health may affect the recommendation.
Children and older adults
Use a formulation designed for the patient’s age and follow product-specific age and weight directions. Liver or kidney disease may require extra review.
Storage
Keep in original packaging at room temperature, protected from excess heat and moisture, and away from children.
Missed dose
If used on a schedule, take the missed dose when remembered unless the next dose is near; never double up. For as-needed use, follow the package instructions.
Overdose
Taking more than directed can cause unwanted effects such as drowsiness or a rapid heartbeat. Seek urgent advice if excess has been taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
Medical Encyclopedia — Medical Encyclopediasource(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) — RxNorm (National Library of Medicine)source(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
Claritin; Lorfast (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strength is 10 mg; liquid and other products may use different strengths.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A once-daily antihistamine commonly used for allergic rhinitis symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and nasal itching. It may also be used to relieve itching and hives.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use after a known serious hypersensitivity reaction to loratadine or an ingredient in the product. Check specific formulation restrictions before use.
Important precautions
Usually less sedating than older antihistamines, but drowsiness can still occur. Seek advice in liver or kidney disease and before combining it with other allergy or cold medicines.
Common side effects
Possible effects include headache, tiredness, dry mouth and occasional drowsiness.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
A severe allergic reaction is rare but needs emergency attention. Seek assessment for persistent or worsening symptoms or an unusual severe reaction.
Important interactions
Other antihistamines and combination cold products may duplicate treatment. Review all medicines with a clinician or pharmacist, particularly if liver function is impaired.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a serious reaction to loratadine or any product ingredient. Confirm the formulation’s excipients if a known allergy exists.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Ask a healthcare professional to review loratadine use during pregnancy, especially for ongoing symptoms or use alongside other medicines.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Get professional advice before regular use while breastfeeding; the infant’s age and health may affect the recommendation.
Children and older adults
Use a formulation designed for the patient’s age and follow product-specific age and weight directions. Liver or kidney disease may require extra review.
Storage
Keep in original packaging at room temperature, protected from excess heat and moisture, and away from children.
Missed dose
If used on a schedule, take the missed dose when remembered unless the next dose is near; never double up. For as-needed use, follow the package instructions.
Overdose
Taking more than directed can cause unwanted effects such as drowsiness or a rapid heartbeat. Seek urgent advice if excess has been taken.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
Medical Encyclopedia — Medical Encyclopediasource(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
RxNorm (National Library of Medicine) — RxNorm (National Library of Medicine)source(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
